The Compass

Issue date: 11/15/07 Section: News

Media Credit: Sarah Blum

GSC's Office of Minority Affairs and Gainesville City and Hall County Law Enforcement hosted a public relations program Oct. 20.
The event was held in the Continuing education building from 10a.m-noon. Andre Cheek, GSC Director of Minority Affairs hosted the event.
The programs purpose was to improve relationships between Law Enforcement and African American males, and was an opportunity for students and police to see things through each others eyes.
"We're not here to arrest people. We are here to help," Officer Brad Baker said. Baker works closely with the Atlanta Street housing projects, and is known for his good repore with the people that live there.
Following presentations from local law enforcement, questions and concerns from the audience were voiced. Among topics discussed, was the selling of illegal drugs on Atlanta St., in Gainesville. Citizens proposed the placement of security cameras in known drug trafficking areas. Law Enforcement responded that getting funding approved for the cameras would be impossible due to high cost, and would be vandalized as soon as they were in place.
Gang activity at the Melrose apartments on highway 129 was also a growing concern for the Hall County Sheriff's office.
City and County police agreed that they wanted to have the power to help potential criminals, by putting outreach programs in place, to help reduce crime. "I think it is part of my responsibility to do what I can to help those young men who can't help themselves" Cheek said.
A hands-on D.U.I simulation and cookout followed the seminar.

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